Fighting the Silent threat of Glaucoma together before it’s too Late

WORLD GLAUCOMA WEEK

Glaucoma, often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Despite its devastating impact, it remains largely undetected until significant vision loss occurs. As we observe World Glaucoma Week 2025 under the theme “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World,” it is crucial to raise awareness about the increasing burden of glaucoma among youth, the role of lifestyle factors, and the advancements in technology aiding in early detection and management.

Traditionally considered a disease of aging, glaucoma is now emerging as a serious concern among younger populations due to lifestyle changes, prolonged screen exposure, and poor dietary habits. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that India has one of the highest numbers of vision-related disorders, with a rising prevalence in individuals aged 10-35 years. Factors such as excessive screen time, unhealthy diet, smoking, and sleep deprivation contribute to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) – a primary risk factor for glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to elevated IOP. Unlike other vision problems that present immediate symptoms, glaucoma progresses silently, leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. Early symptoms include:

• Frequent headaches and eye strain
• Blurred or narrowed vision (tunnel vision)
• Difficulty adjusting to darkness
• Increased light sensitivity
• Seeing halos around lights
• Due to its asymptomatic nature in the early stages, regular eye screenings are essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

 Lifestyle Factors Increasing Glaucoma Risk

The modern lifestyle of today’s youth is significantly contributing to the growing incidence of glaucoma. Some key risk factors include:

1. Prolonged Screen Time: Excessive use of digital devices strains the eyes, leading to increased eye pressure and reduced blink rates, which can contribute to optic nerve damage.
2. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption deplete essential nutrients, including Vitamin A, which is vital for eye health. Smoking is also linked to oxidative stress, further exacerbating the risk of glaucoma.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies: A poor diet lacking in antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins (A, C, and E) weakens the eye’s defense mechanism against pressure-related damage.
4. Poor Sleep Patterns: Irregular sleep schedules, especially among those in shift-based jobs, impact eye health by increasing IOP fluctuations.
5. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to poor blood circulation, affecting the optic nerve and overall eye health.
6. Advancements in Glaucoma Detection and Management

With the advent of cutting-edge medical technologies, early detection and treatment of glaucoma have become more accessible. Some of the latest innovations include:

• AI-Powered Screening: Artificial intelligence-based algorithms can analyze retinal images to detect early signs of glaucoma with high accuracy.
• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): This advanced imaging technology provides detailed cross-sectional images of the optic nerve, enabling early detection.
• Smart Contact Lenses: Designed to monitor intraocular pressure fluctuations throughout the day, these lenses help in early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): New surgical approaches offer safer and more effective ways to reduce eye pressure with minimal recovery time.
• Laser Treatments: Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) has emerged as a preferred non-invasive option to improve fluid drainage and lower eye pressure.

Preventive Measures for a Glaucoma-Free Future

While technological advancements aid in glaucoma management, prevention remains the key to reducing its global burden. Indian youth must adopt healthy habits to safeguard their vision:

1. Regular Eye Check-ups: Early detection through routine screenings can prevent irreversible vision loss.
2. Balanced Diet: Incorporate Vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and fish to support eye health.
3. Screen Time Management: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking cessation reduces oxidative stress, while moderate alcohol intake prevents nutrient depletion.
5. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity enhances blood circulation to the optic nerve, lowering the risk of high IOP.
6. Adequate Sleep: Ensure at least 7-8 hours of sleep daily to maintain overall eye health.

Glaucoma is no longer just an age-related disease—it is rapidly becoming a public health concern among the youth. With the combined efforts of healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals, we can unite to create a glaucoma-free world. Early detection, lifestyle modifications, and embracing technological advancements are the cornerstones of preventing this silent killer from becoming an epidemic. Let’s take proactive steps today to preserve the vision of future generations.

(The Author is Chairman and Managing Director of Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals)